We would like you to know you are not alone and we are here to help.
If you or someone you know are newly diagnosed and would like information on support and resources, please download our Welcome Package Updated April 2024.
Should you require more assistance or have any questions, please get in touch with us using our contact page. If you are an organization, you can use our referral forms. ASRMWB Caregiver Referral Form or ASRMWB Client Referral Form
For additional Supports and Resources click: Supports & Services- June 2025 update
Inclusion Alberta – Individual and Family Advocacy
- Phone: 780-451-3055
- Email: mail@inclusionablerta.org
Alberta Human Rights Commission
- Phone: 780-427-7661
- Email: AHRC.Registrar@gov.ab.ca
Canadian Human Rights Commission
- Phone: 888-214-1090
- Email: info.com@chrc-ccdp.gc.ca
Meikle Osgood
- Phone: 780-454-7111
- Email: info@meiklelaw.ca
Alberta My Health
A family’s journey with autism.
Website: Autism Pathway
The information in this guide applies to infants and young children who show early signs related to autism. Autism is a
condition that affects how a person’s brain develops and works. Children with autism may face difficulty with communication,
social interactions, and behaviours.
You are your child’s most important support and a key part of their healthcare team. This guide will help you understand what
to expect as you work with your child’s healthcare team to care for and support your child. If you have any questions along the
way, please ask your child’s healthcare team.
PDF Document: autism-pathway
Autism Awareness Centre Inc.
Autism Awareness Centre hosts trainings across Canada, while ensuring books, articles and resource supports are readily available to all communities keeping parents and professionals on the cutting edge of new information. Autism Awareness Centre is leading the way because we “believe in change”.
Website: Welcome to Autism Awareness Centre Inc.
Autism Society Alberta
Uniting Alberta’s autism community.
Website: http://www.autismalberta.ca
Email: info@autismalberta.ca
Phone: 1-877-777-7192
Autistic Advocacy Network
The Autistic Self Advocacy Network seeks to advance the principles of the disability rights movement with regard to autism. ASAN believes that the goal of autism advocacy should be a world in which autistic people enjoy equal access, rights, and opportunities. We work to empower autistic people across the world to take control of our own lives and the future of our common community, and seek to organize the autistic community to ensure our voices are heard in the national conversation about us. Nothing About Us, Without Us!
Website: Autistic Self Advocacy Network
AIDE Canada
AIDE (Autism and/or Intellectual Disability Knowledge Exchange Network) is a national knowledge network that is committed to providing accurate up-to-date, and useful information and resources to the people who need it.
Website: https://aidecanada.ca/
Contact Form: Getting Assistance – Live Chat | AIDE Canada
Autism Canada
Website: Home – Autism Canada
Autistic Girls Network
Website: Welcome to the | Autistic Girls Network
Canada’s National Autism Network
Driven by Autistic people and their families, the National Autism Network informs Canada’s Autism Strategy and helps shape a future where Autistic people thrive.
Website: https://nan-rna.ca
Autism Edmonton
Enhancing the Lives of Autistic people through knowledge, services, and inclusive opportunities.
Website: Enhancing The Lives of Autistic People -Autism Edmonton
Centre for Autism Services Alberta
The Centre for Autism Services Alberta is the largest accredited autism service provider in northern Alberta. Its mission is to provide comprehensive and innovative supports and services to those affected by ASD.
Website: https://centreforautism.ab.ca/
Phone Edmonton: 780-488-6600
Phone Calgary: 587-439-9702
Autism Calgary
Website: Autism Calgary
Phone Calgary: 403-250-5033
Email: info@autismcalgary.com
Centre for ADHD Awareness Canada
ADDAC is a national charity providing leadership in awareness, education, and advocacy for ADHD across Canada. CADDAC is committed to increasing the understanding of ADHD. Through generous donations, CADDAC’s programs support parents and individuals affected by ADHD. Key programs and initiatives include CADDAC’s Executive Functioning program, group coaching programs, resource navigator program, educational events, awareness initiatives and advocacy initiatives.ADDAC is a national charity providing leadership in awareness, education, and advocacy for ADHD across Canada. CADDAC is committed to increasing the understanding of ADHD. Through generous donations, CADDAC’s programs support parents and individuals affected by ADHD. Key programs and initiatives include CADDAC’s Executive Functioning program, group coaching programs, resource navigator program, educational events, awareness initiatives and advocacy initiatives.
Website: CADDAC: Canadian ADHD Awareness | Education | Advocacy
Inclusion Alberta
Website: Home – Inclusion Alberta
Phone Edmonton: 780-451-3055
Email: info@inclusionalberta.org
Sinneave Family Foundation
The Sinneave Family Foundation is a charitable operating foundation, created in 2008 to address the challenges experienced by emerging adults on the autism spectrum. Located in Calgary, the foundation provides a variety of online resources and events.
Website: https://sinneavefoundation.org/
Email: info@sinneavefoundation.org
Phone: 1-888-733-7976
Raising Children Network (The Australian Parenting Website)
211 Alberta
211 can connect you with programs and resources. You can reach 211 anytime 24/7:
- Call 2-1-1
- Text INFO to 211
Speak a language other than English? Phone service available in over 170 languages. Just call 2-1-1.
Website: 211 Alberta | 211 Alberta, Help Starts Here
Caregivers College
Website: Home | ACC
Alberta Caregiver College® is a virtual college dedicated to providing courses to enhance the knowledge and skills of caregivers to provide for their family member. The educational programs were developed by the Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital, Alberta Health Services, with contributions from other partnering organizations in Alberta. The individuals who developed the programs are educators and professionals in rehabilitation and geriatrics and include dietitians, nurses, occupational therapists, physical therapists, physicians, psychologists, social workers, and speech language pathologists.
Petro Canada Caregivers
Resources for family caregivers and their support network. Use our resources to help guide your unique caregiving journey and find support in your area. From essential education to vital respite and home care, these resources offer comprehensive support.
Website: Caregivers – CareMakers
The Hub Family Resource Centre
The Hub Family Resource Centre (The Hub) is the comprehensive family services provider in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo.
Website:https://www.thehubfrc.ca
Phone: 780-743-9225
Caregivers Alberta
Founded in 2001 by a group of concerned caregivers, Caregivers Alberta strives to empower caregivers and promote their well-being by providing resources, mental health support, and education for Albertans caring for family members or friends.
NEFAN
North East Alberta Fetal Alcohol Network (NEFAN) is a FASD service network that enhances the supports in its region for those affected by FASD.
Website: https://neafan.ca/
Phone: 780-750-6678
Salvation Army – START program (Start Today Achieve Results Tomorrow)
Provides residential and community support services to persons with developmental disabilities.
Website: https://salvationarmy.ca/alberta/abnt/home/
Phone: 780-743-4135
Taproot (Formerly WJS Canada)
Together with a Taproot Family Support worker, you and your family will explore needs and concerns, develop a family-created plan, and connect with community resources that fit your needs.
Website: Taproot Home – Taproot
Phone: 780-791-9993
Taproot (Formerly WJS Canada) – Family Resilience Program
Together with a WJS Family Support worker, you and your family will explore needs and concerns, develop a family-created plan, and connect with community resources that fit your needs.
Website: Taproot Home – Taproot
Phone: 587-990-2457
Pride YMM
Supporting the 2SLGBTQIA+ Community in Wood Buffalo with Pride.
Website: https://prideymm.ca/
Phone: (587) 646-6626
Vulnerable Persons Registry
Emergencies happen. If you are a vulnerable person living in the region, you may be at greater risk during an emergency. Get prepared by learning more about the Vulnerable Persons Registry.
Dentably has created a fantastic resource guide about ASD and dental services. There is information about what to ask the dentist, how to prepare for an appointment, and special accommodations.
Website: https://www.emergencydentistsusa.com/autism-and-dental-care/
These dentists are adult Autism Aware:
Autism and Neurodiversity in the Workplace is offered by the University of British Columbia
This program includes a series of six self-paced, interactive modules filled with useful activities and videos. The program is designed to assist human resource professionals, employers, supervisors, managers, co-workers, job coaches and counsellors, autistic employees, parents, students, and anyone interested in inclusive employment to learn practical strategies on how to support all employees to be successful on the job.
Employers Guide To Hiring and Working with Professionals with Disabilities
Are you an employer who wants to strengthen your business and find the talent you need? In Ottawa, 63% of employers reported that they struggle to find and retain the workers they need. As an employer, you can meet your future labour needs by taking an inclusive approach to recruiting and hiring.
My Alberta Supports
Alberta Supports can help you access more than 30 programs and 120 services for seniors, people with disabilities, job seekers, parents and families, homelessness, financial assistance, abuse, and family violence prevention.
Website: myAlbertaSupports – Connecting you to services
Family Supports for Children with Disabilities (FSCD) (Government of Alberta)
The Family Support for Children with Disabilities (FSCD) Program provides a wide range of family-centered supports and services.
Website: www.humanservices.alberta.ca/disability-services/14855.html
Phone: 780-743-7416
Intake email: HS.NEFSCDIntake@gov.ab.ca
Persons with Developmental Disabilities (PDD) (Government of Alberta)
PDD funds programs and services to help adult Albertans with developmental disabilities to be a part of their communities and live as independently as they can.
Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH)
Financial and health benefits for eligible Albertans with a permanent medical condition that prevents them from earning a living.
Website: Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH) | Alberta.ca
Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
A government tax credit that reduces the amount of income tax that a person with a disability and/or their caregiver has to pay.
Website: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/individuals/segments/tax-credits-deductions-persons-disabilities/disability-tax-credit.html
Phone: 800-959-8281
Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP)
A registered disability savings plan (RDSP) is a savings plan intended to help parents and others save for the long term financial security of a person who is eligible for the disability tax credit (DTC).
Website: Registered Disability Savings Plan – Canada.ca
Alberta Aids to Daily Living (AADL)
AADL helps Albertans with a long-term disability, chronic or terminal illness to pay for basic medical equipment and supplies.
Website: Alberta Aids to Daily Living (AADL) | Alberta.ca
Phone: 780-427-0731
Alberta Support
Helping you find and apply for family and social supports.
Website: www.alberta.ca/alberta-supports.aspx
Phone: 1-877-644-9992
Social Support Services
The Municipality provides social support services that offer a variety of preventative programs designed to enhance the wellbeing of individuals, families and communities. All programs support and enhance the lives of our residents. Programs are available in both the urban and rural areas.
AHS – Early Childhood Intervention Program
The Early Childhood Intervention Program provides support to families of infants and children with developmental delays or disabilities from birth to school age.
Office Address: 108 Wolverine Drive, Fort McMurray, AB, T9H 4Y7
Phone: 780-741-5616
Alberta Health Services (Northern Lights Regional Hospital)
Helping you find Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Speech and Language Services.
Website: Northern Lights Regional Health Centre – Physical Therapy Services | Alberta Health Services
Phone:
Speech and Language Services. 780-791-6275
Occupational Therapy & Physical Therapy 780-791-6016
Benefit WayFinder
Your guide to government benefits that can help put more money in your pocket.
Website: Home – Benefits wayfinder
Service Canada
Service Canada provides Canadians with a single point of access to services and benefits.
Autism Housing Network of Alberta
The Autism Housing Network of Alberta (AHNA) is focused on improving the access to and quality of housing opportunities for autistic individuals and their families. Our goal is to work together to better understand housing needs across the province, extend the reach of support to families, learn from each other to proactively facilitate new housing solutions, and establish a provincial approach to recruitment to capitalize on housing units as they become available.
Website: Housing | Autism Society Alberta (autismalberta.ca)
Housing Guide
aide-canada-alberta-housing-guide-christopher-whelan
WB Housing
Safe, affordable housing is critically important to society, families, and individuals as a whole. Wood Buffalo Housing is here to help facilitate Provincial programs.
Website: Wood Buffalo Housing – Housing for Everyone (wbhousing.ca)
Educare
At our preschool, we believe every child is a unique individual with their own set of strengths, interests, learning styles, and needs. We view education as a holistic process that goes beyond the acquisition of knowledge and skills. It is our educator’s responsibility to create a nurturing and inclusive environment that fosters each child’s development and prepares them for a successful future.
We believe that play is a fundamental aspect of early childhood education.
Website: Home | Educare Preschool – Fort McMurray
KP Squared
KPSquared Inc. is redefining child care as essential infrastructure across Alberta. Our family-centric model supports both parents and children, anchoring stability around real work schedules, reducing stress, and strengthening the emotional and economic foundations families depend on.
We specialize in 24-hour innovative care for families working non-traditional hours, while also offering standard-hour programs that follow the same high standards of quality, connection, and flexibility. Every KPSquared centre is designed to align care with life fostering child development, supporting parents, and strengthening the communities we serve.
Website: KPSquared Inc. | Innovative Child Care | Fort McMurray
YMM Mental Health Resource List
YMM MH Resources 082023
Canadian Mental Health Association – Wood Buffalo
It is just as important to take care of ourselves and other family members during this transition. CMHA offers information, supports and services for your needs.
Empowering Helpers and Caregiver Connection (CMHA program)
Caregiver Connection provides peer support services to parents and caregivers of individuals.
Website: https://woodbuffalo.cmha.ca/programs-services/empowering-helpers/
Phone: 780-743-1053
Intake Email: familypeer@woodbuffalo.cmha.ab.ca
Autism Mental Health Literacy Project (AM-HeLP)
We created the Mental Health Literacy Guide for Autism to increase awareness and share knowledge around issues related to Autistic mental health. This guide is meant to be read by everyone, but most importantly by Autistic adults, family members, professionals, policy-makers and leaders.
Guide: Mental-Health-Literacy-Guide-for-Autism
Centre for Suicide Prevention
Youth and suicide resources
Grieving an Autism Diagnosis: Reflections from an Autistic Clinician
Post Secondary Education
Post-secondary education can feel overwhelming. Taking a reduced course load or studying part-time can help, and disability services can support you with a modified program—but you’ll need current assessments.
If you’re in high school, ask your counselor about updated assessments. If you’ve already graduated, you can access a free assessment through Alberta Health Services.
Once accepted into a program, meet with your Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD) Advisor. They’ll help arrange an assessment through Alberta Works. A Career and Employment Consultant will guide you through the process, review your history, and connect you with professionals.
After your assessment, you’ll review the results and recommended supports. Share your assessment with your SSD Advisor so they can help set up the accommodations you need.
Post Secondary Programs Modified for Individuals with Disabilities
At Athabasca University, we aim to support every student, whether they have a permanent disability or temporary medical circumstances that call for academic accommodations.
Accessibility services | Student support |Athabasca University
Keyano College | Fort McMurray Career-Focused Post-Secondary Programs
Keyano College is committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive, and sustainable learning environment. Whether you’re a current or prospective student with a disability, Accessibility Services provides confidential, no-cost support to help you access your education.
Accessibility Services and Academic Accommodations | Keyano College
Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT)
- NAIT’s Department of Student Life.
- Contact the school 4 – 6 months before starting classes each year.
- Together with a disability advisor, appropriate services will be utilized based on need and documentation of disability.
University of Alberta Student Accessibility Services:
When exploring options at U of A, it might be advisable to contact Student Accessibility Services to help determine the types of academic accommodations that would be available to the student should they choose to enroll, as well as information on funding options (specifically, disability related financial supports).
-
- Services to Students with Disabilities – SSD Is available to offer various resources, services and accommodations to help with improving accessibility and removing barriers from the students learning environment.
- Campus Connections – Campus Connections is an inclusive post-secondary opportunity that supports students with developmental disabilities to be fully included in programs of interest to achieve their career aspirations.
Concordia University of Edmonton
- Inclusive Post-Secondary Education – A service that gives students with developmental disability an opportunity to experience post-secondary education through participation in Concordia’s university courses, programs of study and campus life, enhancing the learning environment for all.
The purpose of accommodation services is to provide a level playing field on which students with documented disabilities can actualize their capabilities without unreasonable hindrance or barrier to their education. Accommodation services do not diminish the academic expectation of the individual student, but rather allow the student to explore classroom accommodations that cater to unique learning needs. - Kings College Disability and Accommodation Services
- Learning Accommodation Services (LAS) – Concordia provides opportunities for academically qualified persons with documented disabilities to achieve their full potential as individuals and in terms of their education and career objectives.
Post Secondary Financial Resources
Employment and Social Development Canada – Grant for Students with Permanent Disabilities
$2000 per academic year.
Canada Student Grant for Service and Equipment for Students with Permanent Disabilities
- Up to $8,000 per year.
- Designed to help cover exceptional education-related costs associated with disability, such as a tutor, interpreter, note-takers, readers or brailers, attendant care for studies, specialized transportation, or 75% of the cost of a learning disability assessment up to a maximum of $1,200.
Alberta Grant for Students with Disabilities
- Up to $3,000 per year.
Mattison Scholarship Program for Students with Disabilities
For full-time students in their third or fourth year of a first undergraduate degree. Must be nominated by their school’s disability services department. Must have a minimum average of 80%.
The NEADS National Student Awards Program
NEADS is a scholarship for Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada with a permanent disability, who are currently registered in and returning to a full-time program of study at an accredited Canadian post-secondary college or university.
This website was created to help post-secondary students search for hundreds of scholarships available.
Birchwood Circle of Care
The clinic offers speech therapy, occupational therapy, and counselling for children and youth in Fort McMurray. We offer ADHD assessments for adults. We work as a team to service children with complex needs (Autism, Global Developmental Delay, Down Syndrome, etc.) and their families. We also work in First Nations communities.
They offer:
- Speech-Language Pathologist
- Therapy Assistant
- Registered Counselling Therapist
- Occupational Therapist
- Registered Psychologist
- Registered Dietitian
Website: Birchwood Circle of Care
Alberta Health Services
What is a Regional Parent Advisory Committee (RPAC)?
RPAC “strives to always consider the best interest of children with disabilities and their families”.
Purpose
The purpose of the RPAC is to enhance the involvement between families of children with disabilities, and regional supports and services. RPACs provide regional committee members with a mechanism to have their voices heard at both the regional and provincial levels.
The RPAC gives feedback to the Provincial Parent Advisory Committee (PPAC) about the life experiences of those who use FSCD. PPAC then passes this information on to the government. We need voices from all parts of our region – including rural – to help FSCD be a program that helps families in Alberta in the best way possible.
For Additional information: What is a RPAC
Upcoming meetings are planned for 6:30pm on:
Feb 10th, May 12th, Sept 22nd, Dec 1st, 2025
The FSCD North East Region is looking for a diverse group of parents for the Regional Parent Advisory Committee For questions or to come to a meeting contact: chair.rpac.ne@gmail.com or tina.ppac@gmail.com
Autism Society of the RMWB
Our Social-Respite program focuses on opportunities for children aged 3-17-years-old with differing abilities to build stronger foundations for social interactions and community involvement. Children and youth get to be a part of the community and make friendships while parents receive the benefit of respite support!
For any questions, please contact 780-531-5777 or email programdirector@autismrmwb.org
More Details: Social Respite
McMann Youth family and Community Services Association
To support and encourage individuals and families to achieve their full potential as members of their community.
Website: www.mcman.ca
Phone: 780-743-9721
APIDAE
Apidae Compassion Care provides quality home support services to help our clients maintain a sense of independence and dignity so they can stay safe in the familiar surroundings of their home or care facility.
Website: Apidae Compassion Care
Phone: 780-573-6304
Back to School Resources
Classroom Resources for teachers and professionals Autism Society of the RMWB
Education Inclusion Program – Autism RMWB
Autism Society of Alberta
Getting Ready for Back-to-School – Autism Society Alberta (autismalberta.ca)
Inclusion Alberta
Tips for Achieving an Inclusive K-12 Education – Inclusion Alberta
Aide Canada
Back to School Collection (aidecanada.ca)
Post Secondary Disability Funding Aide Canada
Post-Secondary Education Disability Funding by Province/Territory (aidecanada.ca)
Post Secondary Supports from Aide Canada
Autism and Post-Secondary Supports (aidecanada.ca)
Teachers/professionals supporting Neurodiverse from Aide Canada
Educare Early Intervention Preschool
Educare is a preschool program for all children ages 3-5. They address the area of early childhood development language enrichment, special needs and wellness.
Website: http://educareearlyintervention.com/about/
Phone: 780-743-3464
Fort McMurray Public School District
K-12 Schooling
Website: www.fmpsdschools.ca
Phone: 780-790-7900
Sensory Room Resources
Looking to build a sensory room or add to your personal resources? Check out some of the great stores we use at the Society below!
- Ability Hive | Sensory & Therapeutic Tools For Every Journey
- ARK Therapeutic – Makers of Innovative Special Needs Products & Sensory Therapy Tools
- Shop | Cade’s BOMB Bombs
- Harkla – Special Needs Products for Happier and Healthier Children
- Munchables: Sensory Chewelry | Free Shipping | 90 Day Chew Guarantee
- Therapyware | Therapyware
- Tfh Sensory Education Tools | Occupational Therapy Supports | Special Needs Toys Canada
- www.wintergreen.ca
Support 4 Moms Society
To provide a safe venue for parents to build networks, share experiences in a positive non-judgmental manner. To learn from and support peers.
Website: https://www.support4moms.com/
Email: support4moms@outlook.com
Support4moms can be reached by email or by joining their private FB page; Support 4 Moms Society – Fort McMurray
Autism Alberta peer mentor – online support group
As part of Autism Society Alberta’s COVID Response, our Family Support Workers and Autistic Peer Mentors are offering online support groups for parents, families and autistic individuals throughout Alberta.
Website: https://autismalberta.ca/upcoming-online-support-groups/
Wandering Risk
Some autistic individuals will wander for various reasons: being overwhelmed with their surroundings, wanting to be in their favorite place, or simply exploring. Statistics show that 50% of parents with autistic children confirm that their children wander and that the behavior normally peaks around the age of 4. There are a variety of resources available to protect a child at risk of wandering. First of all, children who wander should have MedicAlert ID tags so that first responders can contact the family and safely return the child.
Additional Resources
- iLoc Technologies
- Eyez-On
- No Child Without
- Big Red Safety Box
- SABRE Wireless Home Security
- AngelSense
Swim and Water Safety
Tips to help keep your autistic loved one safe in and around pools and water.
